How to Make the Best Homemade Pho

What is pho?

Pho is a type of Vietnamese noodle soup that typically consists of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef or chicken. The broth is made by simmering beef or chicken bones, spices, and other ingredients for several hours, and the noodles are cooked separately and then added to the broth along with the meat and herbs. Pho is a popular street food in Vietnam and is also widely available in restaurants around the world. It is typically served with a side of bean sprouts, basil, lime wedges, and chili peppers, which can be added to the soup according to individual taste. Pho is typically eaten as a breakfast or lunch dish, but it can also be enjoyed at other times of the day.

Ingredients:

·         8 cups beef or chicken broth

·         2 cinnamon sticks

·         4-star anise pods

·         1 tablespoon coriander seeds

·         1 tablespoon fennel seeds

·         1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns

·         1 large onion, quartered

·         3-inch piece of ginger, sliced

·         2 cloves garlic, smashed

·         2 tablespoons fish sauce

·         1 tablespoon sugar

·         8 ounces of rice noodles

·         1 pound thinly sliced beef, chicken, or tofu

·         Fresh cilantro, basil, and bean sprouts for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1.    In a large pot, bring the broth to a boil. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and peppercorns.

2.    Char the onion and ginger under the broiler or on a grill until blackened on all sides. Add the charred onion and ginger to the pot, along with the garlic. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.

3.    Use a fine-mesh sieve to strain the broth, removing the solids. Bring the broth back to a boil in the same pot.

4.    Meanwhile, soak the rice noodles in hot water until pliable, about 10-15 minutes.

5.    Add the fish sauce and sugar to the broth and taste for seasoning. If the broth is too strong, add a little water. If it's not flavorful enough, add a little more fish sauce or sugar.

6.    Divide the noodles and protein among bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and protein.

7.    Garnish with cilantro, basil, and bean sprouts, if desired. Serve hot.

Enjoy!